Podcast Episodes

“Is your fantasy world leading readers closer to God, or just into the woods?” Christian fantasy authors often wrestle with a big question: Can I use magic in my stories without compromising biblical truth? In this episode, we break down how to create magic systems that are imaginative, compelling, and Christ-honoring.

Jenifer Carll-Tong

Jenifer Carll-Tong is the best-selling author of historical Christian romances and co-host of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.

jenifercarlltong.com

Can you write fantasy fiction as a Christian without sounding preachy or compromising your values? In this episode of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast, we explore how to write Christian fantasy that resonates with both secular and faith-based readers.

We’ll explore:

Jenifer Carll-Tong

Jenifer Carll-Tong is the best-selling author of historical Christian romances and co-host of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.

jenifercarlltong.com

Not every scene in your novel needs explosions or emotional breakdowns to be powerful. In this episode of The Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast, we dive into how to write “quiet” scenes—moments that might seem mundane but are rich with subtext, emotion, and transformation. Learn how to craft meaningful everyday moments that deepen your characters, maintain story momentum, and resonate with readers on a heart level.

We’ll cover techniques for building tension without conflict, using subtle cues to convey emotion, and how to layer small scenes with big meaning—all especially relevant in character-driven Christian fiction.

Jenifer Carll-Tong

Jenifer Carll-Tong is the best-selling author of historical Christian romances and co-host of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.

jenifercarlltong.com

Should you write what you know—even if it’s deeply personal? In this episode of The Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast, we’re talking about how to weave real-life experiences into your fiction in a way that adds emotional depth and authenticity, without turning your novel into a memoir.

You’ll learn how to balance truth with creativity, protect relationships, and use your story to glorify God. We also share practical tips for fictionalizing personal events and knowing when it’s time to let go or revise. Whether you’re writing from pain, joy, or testimony, this episode will help you tell your truth through fiction—wisely and well.

Support this ministry on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/christianindiewriters

Sprint Prompt: Theme: Let’s Get Personal

Jenifer Carll-Tong

Jenifer Carll-Tong is the best-selling author of historical Christian romances and co-host of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.

jenifercarlltong.com

Christian fiction is not what it used to be—and that’s a good thing. In this episode, we take a deep dive into how the genre has grown beyond its traditional boundaries and what that means for indie authors writing today. From the rise of diverse voices and speculative fiction to the shift toward more authentic, grace-filled storytelling, we unpack the trends shaping Christian fiction right now and look ahead to where it’s heading.

Whether you’re a seasoned indie author or just starting your writing journey, we’ll equip you with insights, inspiration, and practical tips to stay ahead of the curve—without compromising your message or mission.

Tune in as we explore how to write stories that reflect a living faith in a rapidly evolving literary world.

🔹 What’s trending in Christian fiction today
🔹 Predictions for the future of faith-based storytelling
🔹 How indie authors can innovate while staying grounded

Sprint Prompt: This location is rich with history.

Jenifer Carll-Tong

Jenifer Carll-Tong is the best-selling author of historical Christian romances and co-host of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.

jenifercarlltong.com

Could short stories be the missing piece in your writing journey? In this week’s episode of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast, we explore the top 5 benefits of writing short stories—and how they can enhance your craft, expand your reach, and help you share your message with greater impact.

From honing your storytelling skills to growing your audience and experimenting with fresh ideas, short fiction offers a versatile way to develop as a writer and communicate your faith more powerfully.

Sprint Prompt: testing the waters

Jamie Hershberger

writingshorts.net

Perhaps you’ve grown your reading audience to gigantic proportions. If so, congratulations and keep up the good work! But if you find yourself struggling to do so, or if you’ve not yet set out to grow your readership, this episode is for you! We’ll talk about the realities of a small readership, including some benefits that you may not have considered. We’ll also offer encouragement and support to keep you writing, even if it is for an audience of one!

Support this ministry on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/christianindiewriters

30 Days of Writing Sprint Prompts: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MGR7431

Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/listenersofciwp

Sprint Prompt: Theme; One on One

Jamie Hershberger

writingshorts.net

In this episode we’re digging into the storytelling genius of Jesus. We all know His parables are full of spiritual power—but they’re also brilliant examples of tight, compelling narrative. So, what can we as fiction writers learn from the way Jesus told stories? Tune in to find out.

Support this ministry on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/christianindiewriters

30 Days of Writing Sprint Prompts: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MGR7431

Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/listenersofciwp

Sprint Prompt: She should have learned her lesson.

Jamie Hershberger

writingshorts.net

Maybe you’ve wondered how to handle hard topics—abuse, trauma, addiction, mental illness—etc. And maybe you’ve found yourself asking: should Christian writers go there? How do we shine the light of Christ in dark places through our fiction and nonfiction?

Support this ministry on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/christianindiewriters

30 Days of Writing Sprint Prompts: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MGR7431

Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/listenersofciwp

Sprint Prompt: experiment, recommendation, stain, entry, camp

Jamie Hershberger

writingshorts.net